{"id":42128,"date":"2024-09-12T13:42:36","date_gmt":"2024-09-12T12:42:36","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/ifesworld.org\/?post_type=conexion&#038;p=42128"},"modified":"2024-10-29T08:47:11","modified_gmt":"2024-10-29T08:47:11","slug":"student-ministry-in-a-digital-age","status":"publish","type":"conexion","link":"https:\/\/ifesworld.org\/en\/blog\/student-ministry-in-a-digital-age\/","title":{"rendered":"Student Ministry in a Digital Age"},"content":{"rendered":"<div class=\"wp-block block-core-heading\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-md-font-size\">You are one of five and a half billion people using the internet.<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block block-core-paragraph\">\n<p class=\"has-md-font-size wp-block-paragraph\">Scrolling news feeds, streaming TV shows, and shopping online are probably an integral part of your life. Through subconscious adaptations and conscious choices, you are part of the digital age.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block block-core-paragraph\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But what does Christ think about the adaptations and <strong>choices we make<\/strong>?<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block block-core-paragraph\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And how can student ministry thrive in this<em> <\/em><strong>\u201cnew world\u201d<\/strong>?\u00a0<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block block-core-paragraph\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">These are vital questions. Today\u2019s students are not just <a href=\"https:\/\/dictionary.cambridge.org\/dictionary\/english\/digital-native\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>digital natives<\/strong><\/a> but also <a href=\"https:\/\/reutersinstitute.politics.ox.ac.uk\/digital-news-report\/2022\/young-audiences-news-media\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>social media natives<\/strong><\/a>.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block block-core-paragraph\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In a recent survey of IFES national movements, a third said digital ministry is a focus area. Yet almost two-thirds of all respondents said they require support in it.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block block-core-paragraph\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">So, how has digital engagement across IFES evolved and how can we fully utilise new technologies?<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block block-core-paragraph\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">What support can we offer each other so that university students are reached and equipped in this digital age?&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block block-core-heading wp-elements-d39bc0f68352af8c5ea3b350ba8c2233\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-white-color has-primary-background-color has-text-color has-background has-link-color wp-elements-d39bc0f68352af8c5ea3b350ba8c2233\"><strong>THE EVOLVING DIGITAL PRESENCE OF STUDENT MINISTRY<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block block-core-media-text\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-media-text is-stacked-on-mobile has-white-dark-background-color has-background\" style=\"grid-template-columns:51% auto\"><figure class=\"wp-block-media-text__media\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/ifesworld.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/11-28-1024x1024.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-42181 size-full\" srcset=\"https:\/\/ifesworld.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/11-28-1024x1024.png 1024w, https:\/\/ifesworld.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/11-28-300x300.png 300w, https:\/\/ifesworld.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/11-28-150x150.png 150w, https:\/\/ifesworld.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/11-28-768x768.png 768w, https:\/\/ifesworld.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/11-28-70x70.png 70w, https:\/\/ifesworld.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/11-28.png 1080w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure><div class=\"wp-block-media-text__content\"><div class=\"wp-block block-core-paragraph\">\n<p class=\"has-md-font-size wp-block-paragraph\">Most Christian ministries have adopted digital technology to be present in the digital space.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block block-core-columns\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-8f761849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"wp-block block-core-separator is-style-default\">\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-text-color has-accent-light-color has-alpha-channel-opacity has-accent-light-background-color has-background is-style-default\"\/>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block block-core-paragraph\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When the internet became more widespread and accessible in the late 1990s, IFES and some of its national movements launched websites.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block block-core-paragraph\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Initially text heavy, these have evolved into informative and visually attractive platforms for showcasing ministry \u2013 like <a href=\"https:\/\/gbunidos.es\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">GBU Spain\u2019s<\/a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block block-core-paragraph\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">With the emergence of social media, Facebook pages were created, later followed by Instagram accounts. Some movements, like Perkantas Indonesia, are now <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tiktok.com\/@perkantas\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>present on TikTok<\/strong><\/a>. And earlier this year IFES launched its own <a href=\"https:\/\/whatsapp.com\/channel\/0029VaKzF0r1noyz3i3uQQ14\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>WhatsApp channel<\/strong><\/a>.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block block-core-paragraph\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But the evolving use of technology for presence and engagement has been far from uniform.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block block-core-paragraph\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Many movements in Africa prefer to post on a Facebook page rather than maintain a website. This perhaps reflects not just the extra cost and work involved in websites but also that today\u2019s students are less interested in them.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block block-core-paragraph\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Moreover, movements in Latin America, like CECE Ecuador, tend to have higher <a href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/cece.ecuador\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>engagement on Instagram<\/strong><\/a> than Facebook. And a recent poll on the <a href=\"https:\/\/whatsapp.com\/channel\/0029VaKzF0r1noyz3i3uQQ14\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>IFES WhatsApp channel<\/strong><\/a> indicated that it has fewer subscribers from Eurasia, where Telegram is more popular.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block block-core-paragraph\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This cautions us against any one-size-fits-all approach. It should encourage movements to think strategically about developing their presence on platforms that are most relevant in their context.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block block-core-heading wp-elements-1e8287c4c1fb3304bf5ee3d69067ce62\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-white-color has-primary-background-color has-text-color has-background has-link-color wp-elements-1e8287c4c1fb3304bf5ee3d69067ce62\"><strong>E-MINISTRY OR DIGITAL MINISTRY?<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block block-core-paragraph\">\n<p class=\"has-md-font-size wp-block-paragraph\">Beyond ministry presence, forms of student ministry have also evolved into digital formats.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block block-core-paragraph\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Take something as simple as recordings of inspirational talks at IFES conferences. They\u2019ve made their way from being locked in the limited reach of a cassette tape to being ubiquitously available on <a href=\"https:\/\/voicesofifes.podbean.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Voices of IFES podcasts<\/a> and the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/channel\/UCwqg759dNPjNLIRHha1bE1Q\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">IFES YouTube channel<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block block-core-columns\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-8f761849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column has-white-dark-background-color has-background is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:30%\"><div class=\"wp-block block-core-columns\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-8f761849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"wp-block block-core-columns\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-8f761849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis: 5%;\">\u00a0<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:90%\"><div class=\"wp-block block-core-heading wp-elements-52f295a6c5ef7f2a8b4dce8ff1ba01fc\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-primary-color has-text-color has-link-color has-xl-font-size wp-elements-52f295a6c5ef7f2a8b4dce8ff1ba01fc\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.thinkwithgoogle.com\/marketing-strategies\/video\/gen-z-and-youtube\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>80%<\/strong><\/a><\/h2>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block block-core-paragraph\">\n<p class=\"has-md-font-size wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.thinkwithgoogle.com\/marketing-strategies\/video\/gen-z-and-youtube\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">of <strong>Gen Z <\/strong>teens say YouTube has helped them become more knowledgeable about something<\/a>,<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block block-core-paragraph\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">that can only be a good thing. (And keep a look out for old IFES talks that have recently been digitised.)&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis: 5%;\">\u00a0<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block block-core-columns\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-8f761849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"wp-block block-core-separator\">\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\u00a0<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\"><div class=\"wp-block block-core-paragraph\">\n<p class=\"has-md-font-size wp-block-paragraph\">Traditionally delivered in person, training is now widely offered online.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block block-core-paragraph\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Many of IFES\u2019s resource ministries use e-learning, such as courses about <a href=\"https:\/\/ifesworld.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Engaging-the-university-2024_js_b.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>engaging the university<\/strong><\/a>, understanding Scripture, and <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/mailchi.mp\/44f1cee165e5\/staying-in-touch-governance-essentials-may-15574512?e=91b54056d4\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">developing good governance<\/a>. <\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"731\" src=\"https:\/\/ifesworld.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/4-student-at-laptop-1024x731.jpg\" alt=\"student, laptop, e-course, e-learning, digital age\" class=\"wp-image-42147\" srcset=\"https:\/\/ifesworld.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/4-student-at-laptop-1024x731.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/ifesworld.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/4-student-at-laptop-300x214.jpg 300w, https:\/\/ifesworld.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/4-student-at-laptop-768x549.jpg 768w, https:\/\/ifesworld.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/4-student-at-laptop-1536x1097.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/ifesworld.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/4-student-at-laptop-2048x1463.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block block-core-paragraph\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The<strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/lci.ifesworld.org\/en\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">IFES Logos and Cosmos Initiative (LCI)<\/a><\/strong> in Latin America and Francophone Africa uses Moodle for assignments, projects, and feedback as well as Zoom for monthly and quarterly seminars and workshops.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block block-core-paragraph\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In a global fellowship this is invaluable. Digital technology enables students and staff from different countries around the world to meet, learn, and share together in a way that would not be otherwise possible.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block block-core-paragraph\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Scripture Engagement team conducts online calls with their <strong>\u201cmultipliers\u201d<\/strong> four times a year, with <strong>17<\/strong> participants from <strong>16<\/strong> countries across nine IFES regions.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block block-core-paragraph\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Nevertheless, we might agree with Ricardo Borges, Secretary for Scripture Engagement, when he wonders, <strong>\u201cI\u2019m not sure if I can call it \u2018digital ministry\u2019\u201d.&nbsp;<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block block-core-paragraph\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The adoption of digital tools to simply do what we were already doing might better be described as e-ministry. Just like mail became <strong>\u201ce-mail\u201d<\/strong> and courses turned into <strong>\u201ce-courses<\/strong>\u201d, online meetings are essentially<strong> \u201ce-meetings\u201d<\/strong> and YouTube talks <strong>\u201ce-talks\u201d<\/strong>.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block block-core-paragraph\">\n<p class=\"has-md-font-size wp-block-paragraph\">But shouldn\u2019t digital ministry be more?<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block block-core-paragraph\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">How can the opportunities afforded by digital technology <em>shape<\/em> what we\u2019re doing \u2013 or enable us to do something we weren\u2019t?&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block block-core-heading wp-elements-c79621eb8ad02bf24e258c674dabf367\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-white-color has-primary-background-color has-text-color has-background has-link-color wp-elements-c79621eb8ad02bf24e258c674dabf367\"><strong>DIGITAL MINISTRY IN THE DIGITAL AGE<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block block-core-paragraph\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">&nbsp;It turns out that a recent experiment with the e-learning course <strong>\u201cFoundations of Scripture Engagement\u201d <\/strong>is a good example of how the medium can shape content. The team ran two trial courses with very different groups \u2013 LCI participants from eight countries across Francophone Africa and <a href=\"https:\/\/fellowship.sg\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">FES Singapore<\/a> staff.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block block-core-paragraph\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The innovation was that participants were able to adapt and supplement the course content and adjust its length. Ricardo notes that <strong>\u201cit was positive to see how they could utilise the flexibility of the e-learning program to shape a course that better fitted their context.\u201d&nbsp;<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block block-core-columns\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-8f761849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column has-primary-color has-white-dark-background-color has-text-color has-background has-link-color wp-elements-afdae73a9d11610067730af7f3cff333 is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"wp-block block-core-columns\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-8f761849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis: 2%;\">\u00a0<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column has-white-dark-background-color has-background is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:90%\"><div class=\"wp-block block-core-paragraph\">\n<p class=\"has-md-font-size wp-block-paragraph\">In the LCI, WhatsApp proved to be a vital supplement to the Moodle courses and Zoom meetings.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block block-core-paragraph\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">As a group of geographically distant people, the team knew that fostering community while learning was going to be a challenge.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block block-core-paragraph\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But over time, a dozen very active regional and task-based WhatsApp groups sprung up. Learners and leaders could share experiences and knowledge \u2013 and friendships were built. This hybrid approach has facilitated a deeply relational learning experience.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"576\" src=\"https:\/\/ifesworld.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/lci-1024x576.jpg\" alt=\"Francophone Africa, group of learners\" class=\"wp-image-42149\" srcset=\"https:\/\/ifesworld.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/lci-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/ifesworld.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/lci-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/ifesworld.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/lci-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/ifesworld.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/lci-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/ifesworld.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/lci.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block block-acf-spacer\">\n<div id=\"spacer-block_29f93573178e655c5ad2ad599a4dca88\" class=\"\">\n    <div aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer spacer--md\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block block-core-paragraph\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In recent years, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ivcf.ca\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>InterVarsity Canada (IVCF)<\/strong><\/a> have been considering the transition from ministry to e-ministry and the need to affirm and develop digital student ministry.<strong> Sanjana Daniel, IVCF Digital Ministry Specialist<\/strong>, explains:&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block block-core-columns\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-8f761849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column has-north-america-background-color has-background is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"wp-block block-core-columns\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-8f761849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis: 2%;\">\u00a0<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:90%\"><div class=\"wp-block block-core-quote is-style-large is-style-plain wp-elements-e371c2ab71f0e9d3b6830b730ae2b75e\">\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-style-large is-style-plain has-white-color has-north-america-background-color has-text-color has-background has-link-color wp-elements-e371c2ab71f0e9d3b6830b730ae2b75e is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"wp-block block-core-paragraph wp-elements-8c5d2f3e47b95f7dfeaf40ec0d713eed\">\n<p class=\"has-white-color has-text-color has-link-color has-sm-font-size wp-elements-8c5d2f3e47b95f7dfeaf40ec0d713eed wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"font-style:normal;font-weight:500\"><em>\u201cWe coach those who are leading youth and young adults about how they can have helpful and nuanced conversations about the use of digital technology in discipleship. This is mostly done by connecting core competencies \u2013 showing them that what has always been true of discipleship and ministry is still true, but that those skills need to be honed in a new direction. One of the resources we offer is a set of discipleship cycles that are specifically designed around aspects of tech-mediated spiritual formation.\u201d<\/em>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div><\/blockquote>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block block-acf-spacer\">\n<div id=\"spacer-block_29f93573178e655c5ad2ad599a4dca88\" class=\"\">\n    <div aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer spacer--md\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block block-core-columns\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-8f761849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column has-white-dark-background-color has-background is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"663\" src=\"https:\/\/ifesworld.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Desktop-view-wsd-1-1024x663.jpg\" alt=\"InterVarsity Canada, digital discipleship, student ministry, digital age\" class=\"wp-image-42151\" srcset=\"https:\/\/ifesworld.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Desktop-view-wsd-1-1024x663.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/ifesworld.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Desktop-view-wsd-1-300x194.jpg 300w, https:\/\/ifesworld.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Desktop-view-wsd-1-768x497.jpg 768w, https:\/\/ifesworld.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Desktop-view-wsd-1-1536x995.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/ifesworld.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Desktop-view-wsd-1.jpg 1668w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block block-core-columns\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-8f761849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis: 2%;\">\u00a0<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:90%\"><div class=\"wp-block block-core-paragraph\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This considered yet positive approach grapples with a fundamental question: how can we critically assess our digital context so that we neither blindly adopt it nor fail to grasp its opportunities?<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block block-core-paragraph\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That\u2019s also the impetus behind a <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/lausanne.org\/report\/digital-ministry\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">suite of digital ministry papers<\/a> <\/strong>published for this year\u2019s Lausanne conference.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block block-acf-spacer\">\n<div id=\"spacer-block_29f93573178e655c5ad2ad599a4dca88\" class=\"\">\n    <div aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer spacer--md\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block block-core-heading wp-elements-239e4c1657f7f39c8c22491418ddad28\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-white-color has-primary-background-color has-text-color has-background has-link-color wp-elements-239e4c1657f7f39c8c22491418ddad28\"><strong>WISELY UTILISING OPPORTUNITIES OF THE DIGITAL AGE<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block block-core-paragraph\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For Sanjana, <strong>\u201cdigital discipleship\u201d<\/strong> is essential. She is passionate about <a href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/1iIasrnTX80?si=-XtDnoXA-mOlR7N7\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>helping students treat life online as part of our whole-life experience and discipleship<\/strong><\/a>, rather than as a disembodied other part. In this way, IVCF students consider deeper issues of identity, worth, relationships, and discourse. They are challenged to embrace a thoughtful approach \u2013 neither demonizing tech nor being consumed by it. She says this is making them more hopeful:&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block block-core-columns\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns has-white-dark-background-color has-background is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-8f761849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis: 2%;\">\u00a0<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:90%\"><div class=\"wp-block block-core-quote is-style-large is-style-plain wp-elements-6978a290998ef95507dc10c0a0012a1a\">\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-style-large is-style-plain has-white-color has-white-dark-background-color has-text-color has-background has-link-color wp-elements-6978a290998ef95507dc10c0a0012a1a is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"wp-block block-core-paragraph wp-elements-eaf5e4908540fe8f62e6ca333b1da90c\">\n<p class=\"has-primary-color has-white-dark-background-color has-text-color has-background has-link-color has-sm-font-size wp-elements-eaf5e4908540fe8f62e6ca333b1da90c wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"font-style:normal;font-weight:500\"><em>\u201cOne student admitted that the feeling she mostly associates with using her phone is shame. But this conversation has encouraged her to pray about that rather than just accept it and view the realities of modern life with more nuance and grace for herself.\u201d<\/em>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div><\/blockquote>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block block-core-paragraph\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">To support students in their engagement with digital technology, IVCF have curated <a href=\"https:\/\/beacons.ai\/intervarsitycanada\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>a <\/strong><\/a><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/beacons.ai\/intervarsitycanada\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">collection of online resources<\/a>.&nbsp;<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block block-core-paragraph\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Ma\u00e9va Frair, Senior Media Producer at IFES,<\/strong> is also enthusiastic about utilising digital media to shape content that appeals to social natives. In recent years, she has been developing Reels for <a href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/ifesworld\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>IFES on Instagram<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/ifesworld\/reels\/\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1920\" height=\"378\" src=\"https:\/\/ifesworld.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/244.png\" alt=\"student ministry, digital age, Instagram Reels, digital engagement\" class=\"wp-image-42153\" style=\"width:922px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/ifesworld.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/244.png 1920w, https:\/\/ifesworld.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/244-300x59.png 300w, https:\/\/ifesworld.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/244-1024x202.png 1024w, https:\/\/ifesworld.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/244-768x151.png 768w, https:\/\/ifesworld.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/244-1536x302.png 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block block-core-paragraph\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">She sees their immediate value and strategic potential:&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block block-core-columns\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns has-accent-light-background-color has-background is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-8f761849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis: 2%;\">\u00a0<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:90%\"><div class=\"wp-block block-core-quote is-style-large is-style-plain wp-elements-1736920c008d8168015015783f0d517e\">\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-style-large is-style-plain has-white-color has-accent-light-background-color has-text-color has-background has-link-color wp-elements-1736920c008d8168015015783f0d517e is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"wp-block block-core-paragraph wp-elements-216a14c4fbb36bd894c0fe0f9283b559\">\n<p class=\"has-white-color has-text-color has-link-color has-sm-font-size wp-elements-216a14c4fbb36bd894c0fe0f9283b559 wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"font-style:normal;font-weight:500\"><em>\u201cIn this new digital world, everything must be fast. With our short attention spans, we don\u2019t easily take time to read or listen to something. So, our goal is to create accessible content for everyone by giving them small glimpses of something bigger. If students get interested by a one-minute Reel, then they may be willing to access longer pods, articles, and videos.\u201d<\/em>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div><\/blockquote>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block block-core-heading wp-elements-7089e09c6a89aeb8054b040b769d173d\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-white-color has-primary-background-color has-text-color has-background has-link-color wp-elements-7089e09c6a89aeb8054b040b769d173d\"><strong>LEVERAGING THE DIGITAL AGE: FROM USE TO UTILISATION<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block block-core-paragraph\">\n<p class=\"has-md-font-size wp-block-paragraph\">Whether it\u2019s ministry presence, tools, discipleship, or outreach, what we see is that good digital ministry involves creative and thoughtful exploitation of technology.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block block-core-paragraph\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It moves beyond a passive, unthinking use \u2013 beyond an<strong> \u201ce-ministry\u201d<\/strong> approach \u2013 to an active utilisation that meets specific needs and opens up new opportunities.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block block-core-paragraph\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The boundary between use and utilisation can be fluid \u2013 as shown by the Scripture Engagement team\u2019s experience with their e-learning course. What matters is the intention to leverage technology to enhance ministry.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block block-core-media-text\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-media-text has-media-on-the-right is-stacked-on-mobile has-white-dark-background-color has-background\" style=\"grid-template-columns:auto 20%\"><div class=\"wp-block-media-text__content\"><div class=\"wp-block block-core-paragraph\">\n<p class=\"has-md-font-size wp-block-paragraph\">This is one of the aims of <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/connect.ifesworld.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">IFES Connect<\/a> <\/strong>\u2013 an online community for national movement staff, IFES staff, supporters, and students.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block block-core-paragraph\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It was launched to meet the need for a digital space for collaboration, conversation, and direct resource sharing across IFES. This community enables users to follow news and events, contribute to forums, access resources, and offer prayer requests.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block block-acf-ifesbutton\">\n<div class=\"\">\n    <a id=\"btn-block_9cf87f2e402b83997763cc17f88b2d20\" target=\"\" href=\"https:\/\/ifesworld.org\/en\/ifes-connect\/\" class=\"btn btn--cta-link\">\n        <span>\n                    <span class=\"icon\"><svg class=\"icon\"><use xlink:href=\"#chevron-circle-right-solid\"\/><\/svg><\/span>\n        Find out more         <\/span>\n    <\/a>\n<\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/div><figure class=\"wp-block-media-text__media\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"576\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/ifesworld.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Simple-Phone--576x1024.png\" alt=\"student ministry, digital age, digital collaboration, digital platform\" class=\"wp-image-37804 size-full\" srcset=\"https:\/\/ifesworld.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Simple-Phone--576x1024.png 576w, https:\/\/ifesworld.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Simple-Phone--169x300.png 169w, https:\/\/ifesworld.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Simple-Phone--768x1365.png 768w, https:\/\/ifesworld.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Simple-Phone--864x1536.png 864w, https:\/\/ifesworld.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Simple-Phone-.png 1080w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 576px) 100vw, 576px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block block-core-paragraph\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The proactive utilisation of technology also requires an overarching methodology and coordinated strategy.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block block-core-paragraph\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Over the next few years, the <strong>DIGITAL243 project (243 after Proverbs 24:3)<\/strong> will be working with movements and ministries across IFES. It will help connect needs and provide expertise so that digital opportunities can be leveraged.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block block-core-paragraph\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>John Bagg, who heads up the project<\/strong>, says it represents a shift in thinking:<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block block-core-columns\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns has-white-dark-background-color has-background is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-8f761849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis: 2%;\">\u00a0<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:90%\"><div class=\"wp-block block-core-quote is-style-large is-style-plain wp-elements-91a3f3bf7fa152da1a9da60eccbfca98\">\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-style-large is-style-plain has-primary-color has-white-dark-background-color has-text-color has-background has-link-color wp-elements-91a3f3bf7fa152da1a9da60eccbfca98 is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"wp-block block-core-paragraph wp-elements-20475b3d4a40ecb833b5d4d3c715698e\">\n<p class=\"has-primary-color has-text-color has-link-color has-sm-font-size wp-elements-20475b3d4a40ecb833b5d4d3c715698e wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"font-style:normal;font-weight:500\"><em> \u201cI hope that DIGITAL243 will mean that others see IT services not just as a \u2018service provider\u2019 but as a \u2018ministry partner\u2019\u201d.&nbsp;<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div><\/blockquote>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block block-core-heading wp-elements-ed97ea9403352dfbea62f04a8677af30\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-white-color has-primary-background-color has-text-color has-background has-link-color wp-elements-ed97ea9403352dfbea62f04a8677af30\"><strong>INTO THE FUTURE OF THE DIGITAL AGE<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block block-core-paragraph\">\n<p class=\"has-md-font-size wp-block-paragraph\">The five and a half billion internet users will soon be six. If the gospel is to reach natives of all places, then we must reach and equip natives of digital spaces.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block block-core-paragraph\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That will require conscious choices \u2013 a thoughtful and prayerful utilisation of technology rather than subconscious adjustments or negative knee-jerk reactions.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block block-core-paragraph\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">As you discern your own needs, context, and opportunities,<strong> Roja Mathew Jacob, Digital Engagement Specialist at IFES<\/strong>, reminds us of the <strong>ultimate goal:&nbsp;<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block block-core-columns\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns has-accent-light-background-color has-background is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-8f761849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis: 2%;\">\u00a0<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column has-accent-light-background-color has-background is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:90%\"><div class=\"wp-block block-core-quote is-style-large is-style-plain wp-elements-1b38aa63a943c6b9b32eeffbeed3e9bf\">\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-style-large is-style-plain has-white-color has-accent-light-background-color has-text-color has-background has-link-color wp-elements-1b38aa63a943c6b9b32eeffbeed3e9bf is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"wp-block block-core-paragraph wp-elements-cb159c150e014f0616ac967d9be8f1bd\">\n<p class=\"has-white-color has-text-color has-link-color has-sm-font-size wp-elements-cb159c150e014f0616ac967d9be8f1bd wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"font-style:normal;font-weight:500\"><em> <em>\u201cMy vision for digital ministry is to help students encounter Christ in their online lives. Through creative content, authentic connections, and thoughtful engagement, IFES can reach and equip students globally, empowering them to grow in faith and become digital disciples who share Christ&#8217;s love in their online communities.\u201d<\/em>&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div><\/blockquote>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block block-acf-spacer\">\n<div id=\"spacer-block_29f93573178e655c5ad2ad599a4dca88\" class=\"\">\n    <div aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer spacer--md\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block block-core-media-text\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-media-text is-stacked-on-mobile has-white-dark-background-color has-background\" style=\"grid-template-columns:51% auto\"><figure class=\"wp-block-media-text__media\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"972\" src=\"https:\/\/ifesworld.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/9-showing-a-screen-1-1024x972.jpg\" alt=\"student ministry, students, digital age, sharing, smart phone\" class=\"wp-image-42155 size-full\" srcset=\"https:\/\/ifesworld.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/9-showing-a-screen-1-1024x972.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/ifesworld.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/9-showing-a-screen-1-300x285.jpg 300w, https:\/\/ifesworld.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/9-showing-a-screen-1-768x729.jpg 768w, https:\/\/ifesworld.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/9-showing-a-screen-1-1536x1458.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/ifesworld.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/9-showing-a-screen-1-2048x1944.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure><div class=\"wp-block-media-text__content\"><div class=\"wp-block block-core-heading wp-elements-6948a9a93b64edd9a39816bbc5bf14a6\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-primary-color has-text-color has-link-color has-md-font-size wp-elements-6948a9a93b64edd9a39816bbc5bf14a6\">Do you have an inspiring story of digital student ministry to tell \u2013 or more questions about digital ministry?&nbsp;<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block block-core-paragraph aligncenter\">\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-md-font-size wp-block-paragraph\">Share it with your global family on IFES Connect!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block block-acf-ifesbutton aligncenter\">\n<div class=\"aligncenter\">\n    <a id=\"btn-block_49e74ba85dc3f189569adf14f83fed22\" target=\"\" href=\"https:\/\/connect.ifesworld.org\/c\/forum\/4\" class=\"btn btn--primary\">\n        <span>\n        SHARE ON IFES CONNECT&nbsp;        <\/span>\n    <\/a>\n<\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block block-core-columns\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-8f761849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column has-accent-background-color has-background is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"wp-block block-core-heading wp-elements-6ebaecd4bb0cb94fcb179d3d220a1b2e\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-white-color has-accent-background-color has-text-color has-background has-link-color wp-elements-6ebaecd4bb0cb94fcb179d3d220a1b2e\">CONNECT WITH IFES ONLINE:&nbsp;<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block block-core-heading wp-elements-b6da84abeccbe2ce39dd1b4ff7b7ef37\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-primary-color has-white-dark-background-color has-text-color has-background has-link-color wp-elements-b6da84abeccbe2ce39dd1b4ff7b7ef37\"><strong><mark class=\"has-inline-color has-primary-color\" style=\"background-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/ifesworld\/\">Facebook&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/a>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; <a href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/ifesworld\/\">Instagram<\/a>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; <a href=\"https:\/\/whatsapp.com\/channel\/0029VaKzF0r1noyz3i3uQQ14\">WhatsApp<\/a>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/ifesworld\">YouTube<\/a>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/connect.ifesworld.org\/\">IFES Connect&nbsp;<\/a><\/mark><\/strong><\/h3>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block block-acf-spacer\">\n<div id=\"spacer-block_c0176cb88e9c6b4dab4eb321be948417\" class=\"\">\n    <div aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer spacer--lg\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>","protected":false},"featured_media":42132,"template":"","area":[],"theme":[],"class_list":["post-42128","conexion","type-conexion","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.2 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Student Ministry in a Digital Age &#183; IFES Conexi\u00f3n Blog<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"The rise and use of digital ministry has been fast. 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